The NFL is making history as the 2025-2026 season kicks off, with a record-breaking 16 Black quarterbacks set to start Week 1. This incredible milestone surpasses last season’s record of 15, highlighting a significant shift in the league’s landscape.
A New Era for Quarterbacks
With 32 teams in the league, this means that 50% of the starting quarterbacks are Black. The list of talented players includes Jalen Hurts, Patrick Mahomes, Dak Prescott, Russell Wilson, Geno Smith, Jayden Daniels, Lamar Jackson, Spencer Rattler, C.J. Stroud, Cam Ward, Justin Fields, Bryce Young, Jordan Love, Michael Penix Jr., Caleb Williams, and C.J. Stroud.
This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the historical narrative surrounding Black athletes and the quarterback position. For many years, the position was perceived as too mentally demanding for Black players, a notion that has been demonstrably disproven in recent seasons. Doug Williams, the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl (Super Bowl XXII), predicted this shift, stating about a year and a half ago that half the league would feature Black quarterbacks within five years – a prediction that has now come true.
Breaking Barriers, Setting Records
CBS Sports reports that the past three NFL seasons have consecutively set records for starting Black quarterbacks. The 2023 season saw 14 Black signal-callers, followed by 15 in the 2024 season. The upcoming season, starting September 4th, will feature a highly anticipated matchup between the Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott and the Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts, marking the second time two opposing Black quarterbacks have faced each other in a season opener since their historic first meeting in 2023.
This surge in Black starting quarterbacks is a powerful testament to the talent and dedication of these athletes, challenging old stereotypes and paving the way for future generations.
Which of these 16 quarterbacks are you most excited to watch this season? Share your picks in the comments below!
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